NHL Winter Classic Setup Continues

(Orchard Park, NY, December 28, 2007) - - The countdown is at 4-days until the puck drops on the coolest game at Ralph Wilson Stadium in ages. Workers are busy making things right for the hometown Sabres and the visiting Penguins. News 4's Mylous Hairston is in Orchard Park with the very latest. (View complete story in video player.)

Crews Continue Transforming Ralph Wilson Stadium for the NHL Winter Classic

(Buffalo, NY, December 27, 2007) - - So far, the weather is playing fair for crews transforming Ralph Wilson Stadium for the Ice Bowl. News 4's Jericka Duncan reports.

Crews at the stadium are on schedule and it shows through this picture and these words from NHL facilities and operations manager Dan Craig, also known as "The Ice Man".
Dan Craig, "It's on we're locked an loaded. We in the industry would call this god making for us today."

Rainy weather was welcomed to help harden the 1/8 inch of cold ice on the rink. A refrigeration system underneath the foudnation keeps the temperature of the ice between 18 and 20 degrees. By Friday crews will add white paint to the surface, giving it that hockey rink appeal.
Dan Craig, "I saw sunshine and 53 rain, snow, wind you get the whole spectrum."
Because of weather concerns, NHL officials say they have discussed the idea of taking breaks during the Winter Classic if needed.

Don Renzulli, "There's so many different options and it's sensless to talk about different things over and over. We've talked baout it and a few people will huddle up to make that decision."
And remember those obstructed view seats now that the framework surrounding the rink is complete you can see how the biards standing about 4-feet high could get in the way. But in the end it's all about being apart of a history making event happening right here in Western New York.

Don Renzulli, Events Coordinator, "Since day one when tickets went on sale people have been very excited. I think what you guys are doing to promote the game it obviously helps and I think this is a fun thing. It's supposed to be fun."

A fun "thing" that will draw thousands who will fill these empty seats in just a few days.

NHL Winter Classic Press Conference 12/27/2007

Getting Ready For the Winter Classic

Preparations continue for the Winter Classic at Ralph Wilson Stadium. After a slow start, weather conditions have allowed crews to make up some time, and they are back on track. They are beginning to lay the ice down, and the boards are being set up.
Check back here on New Year's Day for updates before and throughout the game.